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Concluding the module

It is with bittersweet memories that this module has come to an end. From listening to Prof Nancy and the introduction lecture on art during the first lesson to eventually getting our efforts recognised during the Interceptions showcase, it was definitely a rollercoaster ride! Throughout the module, I particularly enjoyed the art critique class at NUS Museum and walking around the prep room and exhibits there. It has changed the way I view art exhibitions as I would casually interact with artworks without giving critiques on it prior to this module. The form, materials, positioning and media elements that make up the artwork are potential areas to look out for other than the subject, tone, colours etc.

During the Interceptions showcase, I was inspired by certain artworks such as Revisioning and Unpretty which spoke of issues that were prevalent in Singapore. The judgments and stereotypes placed on one with regards to their orientation can be very troubling but yet these issues remain hidden or undiscussed. The Breathing Bags installation was also very interesting, however, I felt that the work could have been bigger in scale so that it can prominently be displayed as a featured work in the gallery. These are just a few of the artworks showcased at Interceptions and to point out one suggestion, more artworks can be included to make the next Random Blends bigger and better, especially with the wonderful space that we have at ASM!

Despite the mentioned shortcomings of our showcase, I have learnt much in the process with regards to planning and executing an art exhibition. Through the research conducted online with regards to curation and the actual field practice which was conducted at ArtScience Museum, I learnt that there are many considerations to note. According to a paper I read (http://www.idc.ul.ie/techmuseums11/paper/paper18.pdf), curators are the "producers of the experience." The experience would refer to the visitor's encounter, feelings and experience at the exhibition. This would be greatly determined by the curators who not only select the artworks but also decide on the format, presentation, theme and route of the exhibition. This includes assigning signifiers to aid in the visitor's meaning making process. This interpretative approach allows visitors to rely on clues and the signified to make sense of the exhibits and the link to the bigger issue that Interceptions strives to highlight.

Apart from curators, other people involved in providing the experience include the invigilators, emcees, ushers and artists (http://research.it.uts.edu.au/creative/linda/CCSBook/Jan%2021%20web%20pdfs/Muller.pdf). This paper highlights the importance of other actors in contributing to providing this experience. Emcees and invigilators would have to coordinate their scripts to ensure that their understanding of the exhibition is on par and to prevent confusion or miscommunication. As much as Invigilators and ushers play a huge role, the visitors themselves also play the role of observer and participant. Through the activities that they can partake in, such as writing on the drawing blocks or interacting with the games, visitors are not just receivers of knowledge but also exchanging knowledge with the artists and curators. The two-way discourse would invite for a more intimate and immersive experience that is possible with digital media and other forms of communication such as augmented reality.

Through this interactive media capstone project, I have collected memories, applied concepts learnt in class and also discovered more about art and digital media. It was definitely an interesting journey and I am grateful to be part of this class! This may just be the beginning of my involvement in art exhibitions and events! 

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